Distilling the essence of the martial art known in the West as Kung fu, Robert Smith presents Chinese boxing (ch'uan shu) as an art "that combines the hardness of a wall and the softness of a butterfly's wings." His lively, pragmatic account conveys the discipline and insights acquired in 10 years of study and travel in Asia. Smith describes his work with tai chi master Cheng Man-ch'ing, and connects ch'uan shu with the softer aspects and inner power of that popular practice. Fifty black and white photos illustrate this informative and personal account of the Chinese boxing tradition.

The Art of War

£10.99

Compiled more than two thousand years ago by a mysterious warrior-philosopher The Art of War is still perhaps the most prestigious and influential books of strategy in the world today, as eagerly stidied in Asia by modern politicians and executives as it has been by military leaders since ancient times. As a study of the anatomy or organizations in conflict, The Art of War applies to competition and conflict in general, on every lelvel from the interpersonal to the international. its aim is invincibility, victory without battle, and unassailable strength through understanding of the physics, politics, and psychology of conflict.

This is certainly the finest book on a martial art which this reviewer has ever inspected. Clear statment of purpose, lucid presentation, patient detail, and effective illustration characterized this extremely well written work... very highly recommended for libraries where quality books on self-defence are in demand